Gov't to review rice tariffs ahead of harvest season

THE GOVERNMENT is reviewing the lower tariffs on imported rice ahead of the local harvest season next month, according to the presidential palace.

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“To ensure our farmers are not significantly affected (by lower tariffs), this will be reviewed... Once the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) provides a detailed report, it will be forwarded to the Office of the Executive Secretary for submission to the President,” Presidential Communications Office (CO) Undersecretary Clarissa A. Castro said at a Palace briefing in mixed English and Filipino.

Executive Order (EO) No. 62, which took effect in July 2024, lowered import tariffs on rice to 15% from 35% until 2028 to tame inflation.

Under the EO, the rice tariff is subject to a review by the NEDA every four months.

Despite the implementation of lower tariffs, prices of rice have remained elevated in local markets.